Program Purpose
To provide a waiver of nonresident tuition to individuals who are residents of a county or parish of Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico or Oklahoma that is adjacent to Texas to enroll in public institutions in Texas while paying a reduced tuition rate, based on the rate charged Texas students at similar institutions in their state.
NOTE: This webpage is intended to provide basic information for the public by highlighting requirements that appear in the Texas Education Code (TEC) and Texas Administrative Code (TAC). When reviewing eligibility requirements this exemption program, you should always refer to the relevant statutes and rules. The information on this webpage is to be used solely as a resource and does not override the statute or rules for this exemption program. It is not intended as, and does not constitute, legal advice.
Eligibility Requirements
Students who are residents of neighboring states who are from counties or parishes bordering Texas (Louisiana, Oklahoma, Arkansas, New Mexico) and enroll in an eligible Texas institution where the program applies.
New Requirements Fall, 2014
Senate Bill 1210 (83rd Texas Legislature, Regular Session) adds a Grade Point Average requirement for persons to receive continuation awards through the program. This change goes into effect in fall, 2014. Contact your institution for more information.
Eligible Institutions
Limited to public colleges and universities only. The college or university must have a reciprocal agreement with a similar institution in the student's home state, to allow Texas residents attending the other state's institution to pay a reduced tuition rate.
Award Amount
The tuition rate charged to students participating in this program is based on the rate similar institutions in the student's home state charge Texas residents to attend. Therefore, the program can be used only when the Texas institution has an agreement with a similar institution in the student's home state to allow Texas residents attending the other state's institution to pay a reduced tuition rate.
Application Process
The student must first confirm that the Texas institution has a current Reciprocal Agreement with a similar institution in the student's home state. The Registrar's Office of the Texas institution should be able to advise the student of the existence of such an agreement. The process for applying for a tuition waiver varies from college to college. Normally, the office of the registrar processes tuition waivers. However, waivers may also be processed by the admissions office and/or financial aid.
Additional Information
Generally, student eligibility for a waiver must be established prior to or at the time of enrollment. Contact your college for additional information.
- To read more about this program check out:
Texas Education Code 54.231(a) or Coordinating Board Rule, Chapter 21, Subchapter B, Section 29 (Pertaining to Exceptions).
- Contact Us!
